Can Turmeric Treat Skin Conditions?

Turmeric makes a regular appearance at juice bars and organic food stores; however, the spice’s medicinal properties are unknown to many. For thousands of years, people have been using the bright yellow-orange root to treat a wide range of dermatologic conditions. Practitioners use extracts of the plant to manage symptoms of skin cancer, psoriasis, and acne among other diseases and ailments.

Turmeric’s healing powers derive from its principal compound, curcumin. According to a study from the University of Texas, curcumin has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. The study states Turmeric has been used to slow the progression of cancer, protect the body during radiation treatment, and increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy.

However, there is much controversy that remains.  Many myths remain regarding Tumeric.  What do you think?